Brad Pitt may be one of the most recognizable movie stars on the planet, but his fame and success rarely equals big numbers at the weekend box office. Although KILLING THEM SOFTLY isn’t the kind of movie that appeals to everyone, most box office predictors expected more than a bottom five showing. I’m not sure the film had a chance at any Oscar love, but if it did before this weekend, then this weak showing probably killed it. The other new film of the weekend was the horror film, THE COLLECTION, which also debuted to disappointing numbers. I hate to say this, but it serves them right. I don’t know why you would release a graphic horror movie like that right after THANKSGIVING. That’s not exactly the film people want to see while they’re celebrating with their families. I am disappointed with how ANNA KARENINA (click the link to read our review) is being handled. It’s an impressive movie, but with virtually zero marketing and various, limited releases, I don’t think anyone knows it’s even playing in their area.

Next week is a bit of a lackluster weekend in terms of new movie openings. We have Bill Murray being very un-Bill Murray in HYDE PARK ON HUDSON, then Gerard Butler trying to make people remember who he is in PLAYING FOR KEEPS, Eric Bana in DEADFALL, which might be his worst film and Bruce Willis doing another forgettable film with LAY THE FAVORITE. Really, all we’re doing now is waiting for THE HOBBIT: AN UNEXPECTED JOURNEY to hit the big screen on December 14th. Note: the numbers below will be updated as they become final.